Recent progress in scramjet/combined cycle engines at JAXA, Kakuda space center

This report presents recent research activities of the Combined Propulsion Research Group of Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. Aerodynamics and combustion of the scramjet engine and the rocket–ramjet combined-cycle engine, structure and material for the two engines and thermo-aerodynamic of a re-entry vehicle are major subjects. In Mach 6 condition tests, a scramjet engine model produced about 2000 N net thrust, whereas a model produced thrust almost equal to its drag in Mach 12 condition. A flight test of a combustor model was conducted with Hyshot-IV. A rocket–ramjet combined-cycle engine model is under construction with validation of the rocket engine component. Studies of combustor models and aerodynamic component models were conducted for demonstration of the engine operation and improvement of its performances. Light-weight cooling panel by electrochemical etching examined and C/C composite structure was tested. Thermo-aerodynamics of re-entry vehicle was investigated and oxygen molecular density was measured also in high enthalpy flow.